Compton blog: Land of opportunity
Published: 20 September 2011

Somerset batsman Nick Compton is blogging exclusively for Lords.org from the Nokia Champions League Twenty20 in India.

The west country side are preparing for their opening match against Auckland, who lost their opening match against Kolkota Knight Riders by just two runs...

"Well I’m back again but this time I’ve swapped the comforts of the business class lounge for a big double bed at the Taj Krishna Hotel in Hyderabad.

"I'm shattered after a heavy day of travelling but I've got energy to keep an eye on the closing moments of the Kolkata Knight Riders who are playing our first opponents, Auckland.

"It's a low scoring game it seems so I'm trying to suss out the conditions and gain a few tips before our opener tomorrow night.

"It looks like taking the pace off the ball is going to be key, the wickets are slow and flat, although I'm sure Brett Lee will have something to say about that.

"Just looking around we have a young squad, yes no Jos Buttler and Craig Kieswetter nor our Captain Marcus Trescothick, but what an opportunity for all of us.

"Sitting in this five star hotel, travelling to a new country all in the name of cricket is awesome.

"For some of the guys it's their first visit, others were here a few years back so there's a real mix but I know the excitement and opportunity to get out there tomorrow is an emotion we'll all share mutually.

Luxury

"This hotel is nothing short of amazing.

"I've got a huge window that pervades the city of Hyderabad and where lush country fields filled my view just a few days ago, its now mesmerised by dust, dirt, busy roads, craziness, smiles, cricket bats and balls and a great zest for life.

"I popped down for an evening swim and met up with Hildy, Tregs, Dibbs and the Chief Guy Lavender for the buffet. As Tregs pointed out, its his fifth curry of the day so lets hope he pulls up OK tomorrow - glad I’m not his roommate!

"It's an early rise tomorrow for a swim and a stretch to rid ourselves of any cobwebs, followed by a few admin meetings and then it will be time to get to the ground soak in the atmosphere and get on with the game.

"So I’m hitting the sack once again and fortunately there's no Steven Kirby to keep me up this time!"

Compton and Leicestershire's Will Jefferson are blogging exclusively for Lords.org during this year’s Nokia Champions League Twenty20.

MCC and the Nokia CLT20 will combine to promote the MCC Spirit of Cricket campaign in the third domestic global twenty20 tournament, which takes place across Bangalore, Chennai and Kolkata from 23rd September – 9th October.

It is the third successive year where MCC has partnered the competition. The Club also partners the Indian Premier League.